The Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (HBCH&RC) in New Chandigarh, Punjab, has achieved a significant milestone in pediatric oncology by successfully treating a 15-year-old leukemia patient with advanced Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy.
Breakthrough in Cancer Treatment
CAR-T therapy is a personalised cancer immunotherapy that involves collecting a patient's own immune cells and modifying them in specialised laboratories to recognise and attack cancer cells. These enhanced cells are then multiplied and infused back into the body, where they help the immune system target and destroy remaining cancer cells.
Patient Background
The patient, a 15-year-old boy from Haryana, was diagnosed with Very Early Relapsed B-Cell Precursor Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (BCP-ALL). He experienced an early relapse of cancer in the bone marrow within months of beginning chemotherapy.
Medical Team's Efforts
Pediatric oncology consultant Dr Jasmeet Sidhu and Head of Department of Medical Oncology Dr Seema Gulia stated, "The journey from collecting a patient's cells to successfully delivering the therapy involves close coordination and precision at every step. Seeing our young patient return home healthy and hopeful is deeply rewarding for our entire team."
Following infusion of CAR-T cells, the patient was closely monitored in the dedicated Bone Marrow Transplant unit and received intensive care during every phase of treatment. The patient has now been discharged home in good health with an excellent treatment outcome.
Significance of the Achievement
Director Dr Ashish Gulia remarked, "This achievement marks a new chapter in cancer care in the region and reflects our commitment to bringing the latest treatment technologies to patients closer to their homes."
The successful treatment highlights the potential of CAR-T therapy in managing relapsed leukemia and offers hope to many young patients and their families. HBCH&RC continues to advance cancer care through innovative therapies and dedicated medical expertise.
